Koko Maxwella 
Kogi State Governor, Usman Ododo
LOKOJA, Nigeria – Kogi State Governor Usman Ododo has imposed a sweeping 4 p.m. cut-off on all public gatherings as part of intensified security measures aimed at preventing rising criminal activities across the state.
Announcing the directive on Friday, Ododo said the state would “stand undaunted, unbroken and unafraid,” insisting that no criminal group would dictate the state’s security direction. He maintained that Kogi “will no longer bend to fear, bow to threats, or break under criminal breath.”
The decision followed an expanded State Security Council meeting in Lokoja that brought together security chiefs, traditional rulers and senior government officials amid heightened public anxiety over suspected bandit movements in several localities.
Ododo urged residents to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements, emphasising that cooperation between communities and security operatives remains central to ongoing efforts to stabilise the state.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to safety, the governor said, “Kogi will press forward with firm force and focused foresight. Lawlessness will meet lawful might.”
The state government is expected to review the restriction periodically based on evolving security assessments.
About the Author
Otamere Gladness 
Hussaini Ibrahim 
Oluwatobi Adu